Graduate PLUS (GradPLUS) Loans are low-interest federal direct loans awarded to eligible graduate students who file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and have exhausted their eligibility for Direct Stafford Loans.

You must be enrolled in at least 6 credits in any given semester to qualify. Unlike Stafford Loans, PLUS Loans do require that you pass a simplified credit check; students who fail the credit check can still get the loan if they are able to find an endorser who can pass the credit check.

The student’s Direct GradPLUS limit is total Cost of Attendance (as determined by the school) minus other aid received. UMB automatically awards eligible students GradPLUS Loans up to their maximum limit. Students have the choice to make their first payment either 60 days after the loan is fully disbursed or (as of July 1, 2008) six months after the student drops below half-time status.